Zoologists study all types of living creatures, ranging from tiny insects to huge whales. Many zoologists choose to specialize. For example, mammalogists focus on mammals, herpetologists study reptiles and ornithologists concentrate on birds. Many zoologists devote at least part of their time to gathering data in the field, where they can observe animals in their natural environments. The tools that zoologists use depend on the type of life they study and whether the work is conducted in the field or in the laboratory.

In the Field

Zoologists working in the field may be called on to secure samples needed to analyze the status of a water system. Scoops for capturing jellyfish, nets to retrieve plankton, and disks, dredges and samplers to obtain water specimens are some of the tools zoologists use. If zoologists need to capture mammals or reptiles, they may use foot snares or humane traps. Nets are often used to capture insects and spiders.

In the Lab

Once specimens arrive at a laboratory, they must be studied. Zoologists may perform dissections, using tools such as scalpels and tweezers. They may need to prepare slides and then study the tissue under a microscope. At times, zoologists must take samples from specimens to perform blood tests, so they may have to use syringes to draw the blood from an animal.

Technical Equipment

Technology can help zoologists perform their tasks. Zoologists often need to use geographic information systems to find or mark a location. With or without GIS software, they may need to create maps using a software such as ESRI ArcView. Zoologists frequently create computer models to demonstrate past and future changes among a population or environment, so they often use computer programs to generate models or statistical reports. Basic skills in word processing, database and spreadsheet software are also desirable.

Miscellaneous Tools

Depending on the area of specialization, a zoologist may need to work with special tools. For example, a marine biologist typically needs to use diving gear. They may need to operate underwater cameras, microphones or remote vehicles as well. Ornithologists often make use of binoculars to observe specimens in the wild without disturbing them. Some zoologists travel to remote locations to conduct field studies, so they may need to use the tools needed to set up tents or cook under primitive conditions.

About the Author

Jeffrey Joyner has had numerous articles published on the Internet covering a wide range of topics. He studied electrical engineering after a tour of duty in the military, then became a freelance computer programmer for several years before settling on a career as a writer.